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Schuylkill prison population hits '13 low

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POTTSVILLE - Average inmate population at the Schuylkill County prison hit its lowest point this year in October.

According to Warden Gene Berdanier's report Wednesday, there was an average of 290 inmates at the prison throughout the month. That's a drop of 15 since September and only the second time the average went below 300 this year. The average female population for October was 45.

The decrease is being attributed to a prerelease program recently implemented by the board. The program moves a few nonviolent offenders out of prison and on strict supervision.

"It will take a while before it balances out, but the numbers are coming down," board chairman and President Judge William E. Baldwin said Wednesday.

The suggested capacity at the prison is 240.

Population peaked at 303 on Oct. 24. There were 299 inmates at the prison Wednesday.

Other business

Also discussed at the prison board's meeting Wednesday:

- The project with United Prison Equipment, Green Lane, for maintenance on the electronic sliding doors in the jail has started and parts were ordered to install the food access trap doors for the holding and medical cells.

- The prison received a restraint chair Monday. A policy is being developed and a representative from the Berks County prison will come to the prison for training. The chair cost about $1,500.

- There are no staff vacancies at the prison. There are five corrections officers on extended medical leave and one on restricted duty. One officer returned to duty Nov. 4 and two are scheduled to return next week.

mgilgerjr@republicanherald.com

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